Author(s)

There are several different strategies for arterial cannulation in patients with acute aortic dissection type A. Kitamura and colleagues compared results of direct true-lumen cannulation (Samurai cannulation) with other cannulation options. The retrospective review includes 100 patients undergoing surgery for acute type A aortic dissection, 61 of whom underwent Samurai cannulation. Samurai and other cannulation site patients had in-hospital mortality rates of 5% and 7%, respectively. Seven percent of Samurai cannulation patients and 10% of other cannulation site patients experienced disabling stroke. There was no difference between the groups regarding survival and freedom from aorta-related death at follow-up. The authors conclude that Samurai cannulation is a safe and reasonable option in patients with type A dissection.